MSP presence at state Capitol in December cost nearly $1 million

LANSING, MI (AP)-- The Michigan State Police spent an extra $900,000 on overtime and other expenses to have a large presence at the Capitol during demonstrations against a right-to-work law in December.

A state spokeswoman says nearly $803,000 was spent on overtime. Another $98,000 went toward travel, lodging and other expenses.

The figures released Monday account for security from December 5-12—the week in which the Republican-led Legislature passed and Governor Rick Snyder signed bills ending requirements that workers pay union dues or fees as a condition of employment.

Union protesters crowded in and around the Capitol for two days, and security was beefed up at other times, too.

State police say their large show of force prevented lengthy Wisconsin-style protests that could have led to millions more in overtime costs.